by The monthly Minneapolis vintage market took place near campus this past weekend at the Machine shop.
The market brought in customers, like Stephanie Stevens, to shop, drink, and converse on the unique goods offered
“This place is something very unique, different, something that catches peoples eye. Like ‘OMG why did you get that?’ And you’re like it’s one of a kind,” said Stevens.
Although the trend of sustainable shopping has been on the rise, Vintage markets like these are not immune to the economic forces that drive the price increase.
As costs rise, consumers are looking for value in both price and items.
According to the 2024 resale report by thredUP, 60% of consumers say shopping secondhand apparel gives them the most bang for their buck and predicts that the global secondhand apparel market will reach $350 billion by 2028, but the day-to-day challenges of running a vintage market remain significant.
“Just to manage the daily operation, you have to consider utility prices, rent prices, and what not,” says Naeun Lauren Kim, a professor in retail merchandising at the University of Minnesota.
She wants to remind consumers that if you’re looking for a good deal…
“Just do the research… You have a computer in your hand–your cell phone–and you can easily search for an item and even track the price of an item.”
But for Vintage shop owner V Miller, she hopes people won’t turn away because of the price but rather shop for the ethical, fun, stylish reasons.
“life is so short and (shopping) it’s meant to really be lived and have fun with it.”
The next market will take place May 11th at the St. Louis Park ROC.
